Despite first training with the Demons in August 1965 it took until July 1966 for Melbourne to win Ryan's clearance from Prahran. The VFA initially refused to let him go because he was in their national carnival side. He had made the jump from thirds to seniors the year before and kicked 59 goals in 13 games as well as representing the VFA against Tasmania. By the time he was finally cleared Ryan had kicked 94 goals in 24 games and played for the league in the carnival.

He made his debut instantly after crossing to Melbourne but managed just one senior game before being dropped back to the reserves. Returned to Prahran in 1967 and remained there through 1968.